grateful
Presentation High School’s Impact Report
FISCAL YEAR 2023–24
Dear Presentation Community,
Thank you!
As we reflect on the past year, the power of purpose in action at Pres is clear. Our students, faculty, staff, and alumnae continue to embrace the school’s mission, demonstrating resilience, leadership, and deep commitment to excellence. Rooted in faith, justice, compassion, and love, Presentation students thrive in a close-knit, student-centered environment where they are known, challenged, and supported.
Throughout this report, you’ll see how your generosity fuels their success—whether through academic achievements, co-curricular passions, or a steadfast dedication to service and justice. At Pres, we know that for girls to do well, they must first be well and with the guidance of exceptional educators, our students develop the confidence and skills to lead well.
Pres is on the rise, and yet ensuring the school’s mission endures is a complex endeavor. Rising costs, shifting demographics, and the increasing demand for tuition assistance place financial pressures on the school at a time when innovation is essential to meeting the needs of our students. Now more than ever, we rely on our community to make this possible. Your belief in our mission, your generosity, and your partnership sustain Presentation’s future and inspire our students to become leaders of impact.
Thank you for lighting the way forward and ensuring that Pres remains accessible to all young women who seek it. Together, we are shaping a legacy that will endure for generations.
Go Panthers!
Holly Elkins, President
“not words, but deeds...”
MISSION STATEMENT
Presentation High School is an inclusive Catholic, college preparatory school community serving young women. Our transformative education, rooted in faith, justice, compassion and love, inspires students to bring positive change to the world.
VISION STATEMENT
Presentation High School will be the region’s preeminent Catholic high school for girls, distinguished by our exceptional programming and unique focus on balanced growth embedded throughout the Presentation experience.
We are women of faith & intellect and committed to personal growth.
DEDICATED TO WORKING WITH OTHERS
Dear Presentation Community,
As an alumna of Presentation High School, I know firsthand the profound impact of a Pres education. The values I learned here—leadership, faith, and service—shaped me in lasting ways. Today, I am honored to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors, working alongside my fellow Directors to ensure that Presentation continues to thrive for generations to come.
I am proud to share that Pres is on the rise—and with progress comes both opportunity and responsibility. The Board remains committed to ensuring the highest quality education for our students, supporting our outstanding educators, securing long-term sustainability, and strengthening philanthropy. We are also planning for the future through partnering with the Sisters of the Presentation, refining our financial model, and reinforcing strong governance.
We do this work in full partnership with Presentation’s leadership team, whose dedication and vision continue to move Pres forward. Under their stewardship, students are thriving, educators are supported, and our mission remains strong.
None of this happens without you—our alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, and friends. Your investment, whether through generosity, time, or advocacy, sustains Presentation and ensures its lasting impact.
Thank you for believing in our school and walking alongside us on this journey. Your support has never been more vital. Together, we are shaping a future where Pres students will continue to shine—not just in words, but in deeds.
With gratitude,
Suzanne Sawochka ’84 Hooper Chair, Board of Directors
Board Chair
SUZANNE SAWOCHKA ’84 HOOPER
Sustainability & Growth
Strengthening financial stability through enrollment, philanthropy, and long-term planning.
Board of Directors
PRIORITIES FOR THE 2024–2025 SCHOOL YEAR
Advancement & Community Engagement
Supporting fundraising, admissions, and alumnae engagement to strengthen Pres for the future.
Strategic Planning
Overseeing the school’s financial and operational model to ensure long-term viability.
Partnership with the Sisters Governance & Leadership Board Development
Working closely with the Sisters of the Presentation to honor their legacy while planning for the school’s future.
Enhancing Board leadership, diversity, succession planning, and community communication.
Welcoming new Board Members and optimizing Board effectiveness.
"It is so evident to us, Sisters, that students and staff alike have embraced our motto: not words but deeds – and are a visible expression of our mission and charism."
—Sister Rosina Conrotto, PBVM
Board of Directors
Chair:
Suzanne Sawochka ’84 Hooper
Vice Chair:
Dawn Guerreiro ’90 McCale P’18
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Welcome to our New Board Members
Dave Anderson P’12
Greg Baker P’20
Liz Cali ’01
Steve Carter
Natasha Dalzell ’88 Martinez
Hugo De La Torre P’16, P’19
Tina Frankin P’22
Nancy Kauffman
Fr. Tony Mancuso
Nanette Miller
Allison Mull P’23
Mimi Niemiller ’77
Michelle Novotney P’21, P’23
Mike Pope P’08
Brad Tips P’21,P’22, P’24
Liz Cali ’01
“The Pres experience is an essential part of my story. I’m excited to rejoin the community as a Board member and help to ensure future generations of girls are able to experience Pres.”
Steve Carter
“I am a firm believer in single-sex education for young women. Research continues to demonstrate the benefits this environment fosters in the enhanced development of young women–intellectually, emotionally, and psychologically.”
Tina Frankin P’22
"I'm thrilled to be a new Pres Board member and inspired to contribute to a school that teaches students to Be Well and Do Well.”
Allison Mull P’23
“Not Words, But Deeds – Nano Nagle’s inspirational mantra continues to inspire and guide the next generation of female leaders at Presentation. I am excited to join Presentation’s Board of Directors to help support the school and its important mission.”
Scan the QR code to learn more about the diverse expertise of our Board of Directors.
Nancy Kauffman
“Today more than ever, the world needs talented and courageous women to step into leadership roles. At Pres, girls become women who are ready to take on the challenges of the future.”
Michele Novotney P’21,P’23
“A proud graduate of an all-girl Catholic High School in the Bay Area, I am an enthusiastic advocate of the education and community at Pres. I look forward to joining the Pres community as a Board member to support Pres’ future for years to come.”
Brad Tips P’21, P’22, P’24
“I love Pres for what it has provided for my wife and three daughters. Joining the Pres Board is my way of showing gratitude not through words, but through deeds!”
Our Community Today
"Going to an all-girls school has provided me with newfound friends with whom I have developed strong relationships. I believe that the traditions at an all-girls school develop a lifelong sisterhood of support and friendship. Presentation has let me unapologetically be myself and build my self-confidence."
—BROOKLYN B.’28
17%
FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS STUDENTS OF COLOR 67%
37
AP & HONORS CLASSES
20
ALUMNAE ATTEND A COLLEGE OF CHOICE 99% AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
COURSES TO CHOOSE FROM 126
AVERAGE PERCENTILE FOR SAT SCORES IN 2024 87th
23 NUMBER OF ATHLETIC TEAMS
550 SIZE OF OUR STUDENT BODY
26% STUDENTS
60%
PARTICIPATING IN SPEECH & DEBATE STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN ATHLETICS
300+ 40+
STUDENT LEADERSHIP POSITIONS CLUBS & AFFINITY GROUPS
20+
STUDENT WELLNESS WORKSHOPS & LESSONS
1,000+
FROZEN TURKEYS DONATED
36
CLASSES IN DIGITAL, PERFORMING, AND FINE ARTS
10+
LOCAL, GLOBAL TRIPS EACH YEAR
3,800+ HOURS STUDENTS SPEND IN SERVICE PER YEAR
New in 2024, our DEEDS program helps students develop job skills and find their passions. With resume building workshops and on-campus internships, students gain valuable experience in administration, communication, leadership and organization.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT
in our courses
79 AP STUDENTS
89% OF STUDENTS PASSED THEIR AP EXAMS 441 AP TESTS TAKEN
Class of 2024
“We have grown into changemakers capable of not only achieving our dreams but overcoming every obstacle on our path to get there.”
—VINATI P. ’24, VALEDICTORIAN
99%
WENT TO A FOUR OR TWO-YEAR COLLEGE 24% WENT TO A CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY
15% WENT TO A PRIVATE UNIVERSITY IN CALIFORNIA
14% WENT TO A PUBLIC OUT-OF-STATE INSTITUTION
10%
WENT TO A CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY
4 COLLEGE-BOUND ATHLETES
19% WENT TO A UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA (UC) SCHOOL
25% WENT TO A PRIVATE OUT-OF-STATE UNIVERSITY
3 WENT TO INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES
THE IMPACT OF YOUR the panther fund: generosity
Philanthropy is essential to sustaining Presentation’s mission of providing a transformative college preparatory education rooted in faith, justice, compassion, and love. In the 2023–24 fiscal year, our community contributed $2.508 million in gifts and pledges, strengthening innovative programs, faculty excellence, and balanced student growth. These contributions also ensure that a Presentation education remains accessible to all young women who seek it, regardless of financial circumstances. We are proud to continue the legacy of the Sisters, yet this vital work would not be possible without the generosity and investment of our community. Together, we are shaping the future of Pres and empowering the next generation of leaders. We are profoundly grateful for your partnership.
$2.5mil Gifts & new pledges TOTAL GIVING
633 Donors
The Panther Fund
The Panther Fund is the heart of Presentation High School’s commitment to students. As our annual giving program, it meets the school's most pressing needs, ensuring every student benefits from an exceptional, faith-centered education. Your support empowers academic excellence, award-winning teams and clubs, personalized student services, and vital wellness programs. Every dollar directly enhances student experiences—providing resources for technology, tuition assistance, and “Learning into Action” opportunities that bring education to life.
THE PANTHER FUND BY THE NUMBERS
(2023–24 school year)
$850k
Total raised
1,441
Number of gifts
2026
Class with the highest giving total
2027
Class with the most gifts donated
“My years at Pres shaped me into who I am today, gave me lifelong friends and an enduring community. I will forever be a Pres girl, and am now enjoying my new role as a Pres parent. I am proud to support the Panther Fund to strengthen this community for all Pres girls, present and future.”
—CLAIRE NEWTON ’96 MELLIN, P’22 & ’26
CAMPUS & STUDENT LIFE ENRICHMENT
Thanks to the incredible support of the Panther Fund in 2023–24, Presentation High School has made exciting campus improvements this year, enhancing students' experiences across academics, arts, wellness, faith, and athletics. Here are some highlights:
ATHLETICS: ARTS:
Refurbished art rooms with new work surfaces and equipment.
Pool updates and a revamped weight room, now open to all students after school.
FAITH & WELLNESS:
Retreats remain a cornerstone of the Presentation experience, offering students opportunities to pause, reflect, and connect, guided by peer ministers. A newly updated Wellness Center with calming activities and refreshed furniture to support students’ well-being.
FACILITIES:
Installation of air conditioning in the gym, ensuring comfort for athletic events and practices, and community gatherings year-round.
New lockers in the hallways and fresh paint for a welcoming and modern look.
STEM:
A new robotics facility featuring a full-size practice field and advanced tools, empowering our all-female team to innovate and lead.
Enhanced chemistry lab upgrades for elevated hands-on learning experiences.
Your generosity fuels these advancements, helping our students flourish in every aspect of their education. Thank you!
Endowments provide a lasting and stable source of funding that supports Presentation’s long-term mission and vision, helping us invest in the future. Most endowment gifts directly contribute to our Tuition Assistance Program, ensuring that qualified young women, regardless of financial circumstances, have access to our exceptional curriculum and programs. This support fosters educational excellence, social-emotional development, and spiritual growth for all students who seek a Pres education. Fiscal Year 21–22 $11mil
$304k New Endowment Gifts for Fiscal Year 23–24
$683k Endowment Draw for Fiscal Year 23–24
23–24
Tuition Assistance
True to our mission and rich tradition of inclusivity, we proudly extend tuition assistance 25% of Panther families.
$2.8mil+
In the 2023-24 School Year, we budgeted more than $2.8 million in Tuition Assistance PLUS more than $159k to help offset the costs of lunch, textbooks, and co-curricular activities.
$19k
During the 2023-24 school year, the average financial grant awarded was $19,000, with grants ranging from $2,060 to $26,200.
The range of support per-student for books, food and fees to cover students with higher fee needs (i.e.: immersion trips or dance team). $5k
OUR parent-volunteers SAY...
"Presentation High School is special to our family because of its unwavering commitment to the holistic growth of each and every girl. As a volunteer, I work closely with faculty, parents and students to give back to this amazing community."
—Kiran Bal, P’21
& ’27
Pres Parent Volunteer
"Pres is a family of parents, staff, and teachers that always strives to put students first and empower young women to become strong leaders in the communities they serve. That's why I love serving as a PPA Social Chair—because we are a community of parents who care about our kids and each other.”
—Dave Conti, P’23 & ’25
PPA Social Chair
"Volunteering at Pres has been such a rewarding experience. It’s given me the opportunity to give back to the school while connecting with parents from all areas— whether it’s sports, theater, or other activities. It’s also been a wonderful way to get to know the dedicated Presentation faculty and see firsthand the incredible work happening around campus."
—Ken Kowalski, P’24 & ’25
Pres Parent Volunteer
GIVE THE GIFT OF wisdom
VOLUNTEER AT PRES
Volunteering at Pres is a wonderful way to connect with our community and make a difference. Whether you’re a current parent, alum parent, or community member, there’s a place for you! Help with events, keep score at games, or build sets for productions—there are so many ways to share your time and talents while supporting the Panther spirit.
*Volunteers will always be in the presence of school employees and other volunteers.
OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE:
Athletic Ticket Takers
Concessions/Snack Shack
Theater Volunteers/Building Sets/Making Props
Mission Drive Helpers
Panther Parent Association
Admission Ambassadors
Panther Fund Leadership Team
HELP WITH EVENTS SUCH AS:
Harvest Fest
Mother & Daughter Mass & Brunch
The Black & White Ball
Life in Plaid: Art & Fashion Showcase
Teacher Appreciation Activities
SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE:
Host a Summer Intern with the DEEDS Program
Volunteer to Speak in our Professional or Alum Speaker Series
BECOME A PANTHER VOLUNTEER
Contact: Julianne Hausle ’96 Garnett
Community Engagement Manager
jgarnett@presentationhs.org
HOST A SUMMER INTERN | DEEDS PROGRAM
Contact: Lynn Wilson ’07 Lee
Internship Director
llee@presentationhs.org
Alumnae
ENGAGEMENT TEAM
Share your stories with us!
We’d love to hear from you, get your career updates, see the family, watch your travels — send it all our way!
Email: alumnae@presentationhs.org
Meet the new duo behind Alumnae Engagement at Presentation High School! Cassie Caron ’18 and Danielle Najmeh ’01 Dennison are on a mission to strengthen the bonds of the Pres sisterhood and create opportunities for alumnae to stay connected and give back.
Cassie, our Marketing and Communications Manager, is thrilled to return to her alma mater to share stories highlighting Pres’s spirit and achievements. Her fond memories of Panther Pride, softball, and the friendships she made as a student fuel her passion for building connections across the alumnae network.
Danielle, one of our Philanthropy Officers, brings her heartfelt connection to Pres to every aspect of her work. “The relationships and values I gained here inspire me every day to foster an engaged and supportive community,” she shares.
Together, Danielle and Cassie are rolling out exciting initiatives, including an Alumnae Ambassador Program and fun Meet and Greets, to help bring the community together. They’re also inspiring alumnae to support the Tuition Assistance Program, ensuring that future students can benefit from the transformative experience of a Presentation education.
Their energy, creativity, and love for Pres are helping alumnae reconnect, celebrate, and make an impact on the next generation of Panthers!
Contact: Cassie Caron ’18
Marketing Manager
ccaron@presentationhs.org
alumnae@presentationhs.org
(pictured left)
Contact: Danielle Najmeh ’01 Dennison
Philanthropy Officer
ddennison@presentationhs.org
(pictured right)
Calling all Alums!
Success in NY!
We held our first meet-up in February, which was great fun! Look out for more events coming in 2025 in our Alumnae Newsletter.
Coming soon...
Denver, CO
APRIL 4, 2025
Bay Area, CA
APRIL 26, 2025
Philadelphia, PA
JUNE 2025
We’re excited to host meet-ups in your area where you can connect with local Pres alumnae and chat with our wonderful Presentation community!
Want us to come to your town?
We’d love to drop in! Shoot us an email and let us know where you’re at!
Email: Alumnae@presentationhs.org
FINANCIAL overview
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, the school had an operating budget of $22.2 million, including $2.7 million in tuition assistance. Tuition and fees covered 63% of Presentation’s expenses, with the balance funded primarily from contributions and investment income.
Presentation’s tuition assistance program reflects the school’s commitment to accessibility. Strong fiscal stewardship and generous community support have enabled Presentation to maintain this commitment while adapting to market demands by investing in innovative programs, faculty excellence, and student support.
Philanthropy remains vital to the school’s future, with donor support growing steadily over the past three years. As we look ahead, we invite the broader Silicon Valley community to help shape the next generation of Pres students and sustain this legacy of excellence.
THANK you!
We are so grateful to all of our committed donors and volunteers who have generously given their time, energy, and resources to open doors for our students. Your support helps ensure they thrive in the classroom and beyond. A special shout out to our amazing PPA (Parent Association) and the Panther Fund Leadership Team—your unwavering commitment and hard work mean so much to our school community. Thanks to you, we’re able to amplify the impact of our mission every day.
HONOR ROLL of donors
Please visit presentationhs.org/impactreport or scan the QR code to see a full list of our amazing 2023–24 donors. Their generosity helps make the transformative experience at Pres possible for so many young women in our community.
“the Presentation honor instilled within our souls all hail to blue and gold”
WILL GUIDE US ON OUR PATHWAY TO OUR ETERNAL GOAL
SUMMER AT PRES REGISTRATION OPENS
OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS ENTERING 6TH-12TH GRADE
March 2025 visit summeratpres.com to register
April 5, 2025
LIFE IN PLAID - FASHION SHOW & AUCTION
May 1, 2025
MAY DAY MASS
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
ALL COMMUNITY EVENT & ALUMNAE/SENIOR LUNCHEON